Real Madrid will play Manchester City in the Champions League knockout playoffs round in a standout clash of the past two title winners after the draw was made Friday. Man City, the 2023 champion, will host the first leg on Feb.

Manchester City snuck their way into the UEFA Champions League knockout rounds on Wednesday, avoiding elimination on a dramatic final day of the competition's first-ever league phase. Pep Guardiola's side entered halftime with a 1-0 deficit to Club Brugge but three goals after halftime ensured they would clinch a spot in the top 24 and participate in the knockout round playoffs with a 3-1 win.

Manchester City nearly crashed out, but came from behind in the second half, and in the end, all European giants reached the knockout rounds of the Champions League.